Poractant alfa was initially approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 18, 1999.

Poractant alfa is a synthetic surfactant used to treat Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) in premature infants. It is also used to prevent RDS in premature infants at high risk for the condition. Some researchers are studying the use of this medication to treat other lung diseases, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in adults.

Poractant alfa is administered through a breathing tube into the infant's lungs. This is called endotracheopulmonary administration. It is a relatively simple procedure that can be done in a hospital setting.

The most common side effects of  Poractant alfa are bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood), apnea (temporary cessation of breathing), respiratory distress, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Other side effects include allergic reactions, fever, infection, jaundice, and seizures.

Infants with surfactant protein B deficiency do not produce enough surfactant, and  Poractant alfa will not be effective in these infants. Infants with a history of bleeding disorders may be at an increased risk of developing complications with  Poractant alfa. This medication can also cause fever, infection, and jaundice. It can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis can further cause difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling. 

One should consult a health care provider before starting Poractant alfa in infants with a history of allergic reactions. Infants with surfactant protein B deficiency should not take this medication. You should tell your doctor immediately if your infant experiences other side effects like fever, infection, and jaundice. It is important to talk to your doctor about all of the risks and benefits of this medication before your infant receives it.

When receiving  Poractant alfa, it is important to tell your doctor about your medical conditions and medications. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. A healthcare professional should administer it, and you should monitor yourself or your baby for any signs of problems, such as breathing problems, jaundice, or allergic reactions. Do not try to administer this medication yourself. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, bleeding, respiratory distress, apnea, and liver problems, and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of apnea, such as a temporary cessation of breathing. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

1. Chiesi Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on 16th Dec 2019] [Accessed on 23rd August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6450/pil#gref
2. Chiesi USA, Inc  , US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on 05/17/2021] [Accessed on Accessed on 23 August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/appletter/2021/020744Orig1s043ltr.pdf
3. Chao YS, Grobelna A; Curosurf (poractant alfa) for the Treatment of Infants At Risk For or Experiencing Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness, and Guidelines [Internet]; Ottawa (ON): Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health [Published on 18th Sep 2018] [Accessed on 23rd August 2023]; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30860685/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.